I spent the morning at Vichy Springs for a massage and then a hike. I forgot my bathing suit and wasn’t able to go in the mineral baths, but I’ll definitely have to return sometime soon.

I was reading an article in the October/November issue of Paleo Magazine about “risk muscle.” You use it by trying new things. The article quotes Warren Buffett as saying risk “comes from not knowing what you’re doing.” In my 38 years of living, I’m trying more and more to challenge myself to do things that are a little out of my comfort zone. Today it was hiking alone. Even around our property I get a little scared of encountering a wild animal. But then I pretend to be brave, do the thing that scares me, and I survive and feel stronger. If I’ve learned anything in 38 years, it’s that I must keep growing and pushing myself to live life to the fullest. The article talked about how using your risk muscle looks different for everyone. For me it’s hiking alone, and driving home in the dark. For my mama, maybe it’s taking that yoga class at the gym. No matter how old you are, my birthday wish for you is that you try something new today even if you don’t know what you are doing. Go for it anyway. See what happens.